If you’re looking for a savory snack with a sweet and spicy punch, Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky is calling your name. It’s chewy, smoky, and kissed with just the right hint of honeyed heat. I discovered this recipe during a meal prep phase and never looked back—homemade jerky is a game changer. It’s healthier than most store-bought versions and lets you control the flavor completely. With this easy guide, you’ll have protein-packed bites ready to go whether you’re road-tripping, hiking, or just binge-watching your favorite show.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky
Here’s why Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky belongs in your snack rotation:
- Easy prep, huge payoff – Just marinate, dehydrate, and enjoy!
- Unreal flavor – Sweet honey, garlicky heat, and umami-packed sauces create serious depth.
- Perfect for on-the-go – Great for lunchboxes, road trips, and post-workout snacks.
- Budget-friendly – No fancy tools needed, and chicken is a low-cost protein.
History & Fun Facts About Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky
Let’s dig into a few tasty tidbits about Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky:
- Jerky’s roots trace back to ancient Peru, where the Quechua preserved meat with salt and air-drying.
- Chicken jerky grew in popularity as a leaner alternative to beef, especially among fitness communities.
- Honey and garlic have been used together in Asian cooking for centuries—both prized for flavor and health.
- Liquid smoke adds that nostalgic campfire aroma without ever lighting a grill.
Key Ingredients in Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky
- Chicken breast – Lean and easy to slice, perfect for absorbing marinade.
- Soy sauce & Worcestershire sauce – Provide salty, umami-rich depth.
- Honey – Adds natural sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze.
- Chili garlic sauce – Delivers bold spice and garlicky warmth.
- Liquid smoke – Optional, but adds smoky, wood-fired flavor.
- Curing salt – Also optional, it boosts shelf life and food safety.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky
Simple Steps for a Savory, Sweet, and Spicy Snack
- Make your marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, chili garlic sauce, liquid smoke, and curing salt (if using). Stir well.
- Slice the chicken: Trim visible fat from chicken breast and cut into ¼-inch thick strips. For easier slicing, partially freeze the chicken first.
- Marinate thoroughly: Add chicken strips to a zip-top bag, pour in the marinade, and refrigerate for 6 to 24 hours for full flavor absorption.
- Drain the marinade: Use a colander to remove excess liquid from the chicken before drying.
- Arrange on trays: Lay strips flat on dehydrator trays, making sure they don’t touch for proper air circulation.
- Dehydrate to perfection: Set your dehydrator to 160°F and dry for 4–6 hours. Start checking at 3.5 hours. The jerky should bend and crack but not snap.
- Ensure food safety (optional): Heat finished jerky in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Cool and store: Let jerky cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky Tips and Twists
Pro Tricks & Tasty Spins on a Classic
Top Tips:
- Use a sharp knife or meat slicer for even strips.
- Marinate at least 12 hours for max flavor.
- Trim all fat to prevent spoilage.
- Use parchment paper under your trays to catch drips.
- Rotate trays halfway through drying for even results.
Flavor Variations:
- Ginger Soy – Add 1 tbsp grated ginger for zing.
- Spicy Sriracha – Swap chili garlic sauce with Sriracha for a smoother heat.
- Maple Twist – Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer sweetness.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep Your Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky Fresh and Safe
- Storage: Store in an airtight bag in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze for 2 months.
- Reheating: Not needed, but a quick 5-second zap in the microwave makes it warm and pliable.
- Make-Ahead: Prep the marinade and slice chicken a day early. Jerky can also be made in batches and frozen for grab-and-go use.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky is great solo, but even better when paired:
- With fresh fruit – Apples or grapes balance the bold flavors.
- On a charcuterie board – Pair with cheese cubes, nuts, and dried fruits.
- In lunchboxes – Add to bento boxes with crackers and hummus.
- With trail mix – Combine with seeds, nuts, and dried cranberries for an energy-packed snack.
- Post-gym snack – Toss it in your bag for a protein boost after a workout.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this without a dehydrator?
Yes! Use your oven set to its lowest temperature (around 170°F) and place chicken strips on a wire rack.
2. Is curing salt necessary?
No, but it improves shelf life and enhances food safety. Optional if eating within a few days.
3. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Use less chili garlic sauce or skip it if you prefer mild jerky.
4. What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is best for its leanness and ease of slicing.
5. How do I know when the jerky is done?
It should bend and crack slightly—if it snaps in half, it’s over-dried.
Enjoy Your Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky
Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky delivers bold flavor in every bite, and it’s so easy to make right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned snack lover or a curious first-timer, this recipe’s sweet heat and chewy texture will win you over. Make a batch this weekend—you might find yourself reaching for it every time hunger strikes.
Explore More Recipes
If you’re loving the sweet and savory balance of this jerky, check out more flavor-packed dishes from our collection:
- These Quick Crispy Chicken Wraps are perfect for an easy lunch or dinner and bring that same satisfying bite.
- Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs offer another protein-rich meal with bold flavor and cozy comfort.
- Looking for a lighter option? This Simple Avocado Toast with Egg makes a great partner to jerky for breakfast on the go.
- Craving dessert? Balance your savory snack with Best Carrot Cake Cookies—they’re beginner-friendly and totally irresistible.
Honey Garlic Chicken Jerky Recipe (Sweet & Spicy)
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast trimmed of fat
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp chili garlic sauce
- 1 tbsp liquid smoke optional, hickory recommended
- ¼ tsp curing salt optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, chili garlic sauce, liquid smoke, and curing salt (if using).
- Slice chicken breasts into ¼-inch thick strips, trimming all visible fat.
- Add chicken to a ziplock bag and pour in marinade. Marinate in the fridge for 6–24 hours.
- Drain chicken using a colander to remove excess marinade.
- Arrange chicken strips on dehydrator trays, leaving space between each piece.
- Dehydrate at 160°F for 4–6 hours. Begin checking for doneness around 3.5 hours.
- Jerky is done when it bends and cracks but doesn’t snap.
- Optionally, heat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes for food safety.
Notes
Calories: 160
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 680mg